A command for the campaign, would leave
me the winter to prosecute studies relative to my future
career in life * * *.
me the winter to prosecute studies relative to my future
career in life * * *.
Hamilton - 1834 - Life on Hamilton - v1
The interesting letter of Colonel Lau-
rens to Hamilton of the eighteenth December, 1779, will be
recollected; in which the appointment of the latter, as se-
cretary to the minister at Versailles, is mentioned as having
been strongly urged by him. Within a short time after its
date, intelligence was received, that his father, Henry Lau-
rens, who had been appointed a commissioner to negotiate
a treaty with the United Provinces, had been captured on
his voyage, and was immured in the Tower.
This wanton act of severity had excited no less sensa-
tion in Europe than in America, and brought out, in a
bolder light, the character of this distinguished personage,
recently the President of the American Congress, now a
prisoner of state.
The appointment of an envoy had been deferred until the
latter part of the preceding year. The necessity of a loan,
which had been so strongly urged by Hamilton, had led him
to advise another visit to France by La Fayette, whose in-
fluence had been increased by a recent change in the minis-
try, and the idea was entertained, that Hamilton might be
associated with him, in this interesting mission. But the
prospect of active service in the south, had greater charms
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? HAMILTON. S27
for the Marquis, and it was determined, that a member of
Washington's family should be appointed in his stead.
The choice was between the two friends, Laurens and
Hamilton. The idea of the mission having originated with
Hamilton, induced Laurens to defer to him an appointment,
which the dull prospects of the army, his sense of the im-
portance of an energetic negotiation, and the high distinc-
tion, rendered an object of desire. On the other hand, the
news of the capture of his father, would naturally inspire
his son with a wish to seize this opportunity of obtaining his
release. Hamilton immediately relinquished his preten-
sions; but the warmth of Laurens' friendship triumphed
over his filial feelings, and he urged the consent of Hamil-
ton, with an avowal, that he would prefer confiding to him
the fate of his father. A scene of generous contention en-
sued, mutually honourable, and characteristic. Hamilton
prevailed; and on the eleventh of December, Laurens,
having signified his assent to congress, was unanimously
elected.
The importance of giving a correct view of the state of
affairs at this juncture, suggested to Hamilton the idea of a
special letter of instructions, in addition to that which had
been given to the envoy by congress, being addressed to him
by General Washington, which, in the opinion of La Fay-
ette, it was supposed would add additional weight to his
representations. This important duty was delegated to
Hamilton by Washington, and will be read with interest, as
containing a full exposition of the resources and situation of
the country at that critical juncture.
WASHINGTON TO LAURENS.
"In compliance with your request, I shall commit to
writing the result of our conferences on the present state of
American affairs; in which I have given you my opinion
with that freedom and explicitness, which the objects of
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? THE LIFE OP
your commission, my entire confidence in you, and the exi-
gency of our affairs demand.
"1st. To me it appears evident, that, considering the dif-
fused population of these states, the consequent difficulty of
drawing together their resources, the composition and tem-
per of a part of their inhabitants, the want of a sufficient
stock of national wealth, as a basis for revenue, and the al-
most total extinction of commerce, the efforts that we have
been compelled to make for carrying on the war, have ex-
ceeded the natural abilities of this country, and, by degrees,
brought us to a crisis that makes the most efficacious and
immediate succour from abroad indispensable to our safety.
"2d. That notwithstanding, from the confusion insepara-
ble from a revolution; from our having governments to
frame, and every species of civil and military institutions to
create; from that inexperience in affairs necessarily inci-
dent to a nation in its commencement, some errors may
have been committed in the administration of our finances,
to which a part of our embarrassments may be attributed;
yet they are principally to be ascribed to an essential de-
fect of means, the want of a sufficient stock of wealth, as
mentioned in the first article, which want, continuing to
operate, will make it impossible, by any interior exertions,
to extricate ourselves from those embarrassments, restore
the public credit, and furnish the requisite funds for carry-
ing on the war.
"3d. That experience has demonstrated it to be impossi-
ble long to support a paper credit without funds for its re-
demption; that the depreciation of our currency was in
the main a necessary effect of the want of those funds;
and that its restoration is impossible for the same reason,
to which the general diffidence which has taken place
among the people is an additional, and, in the present state
of things, an insuperable obstacle.
"4th. That the mode which for want of money has been
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? IIAMILTON. 329
substituted for supplying the army, by assessing a portion
of the productions of the earth, has hitherto been found to be
ineffectual; has frequently left the army to experience the
most calamitous distress, and from its novelty and incom-
patibility with ancient habits is regarded by the people as
burthensome and oppressive; has excited serious discon-
tents, and in some states there appear alarming symptoms
of opposition. That this mode has, besides, many particu-
lar inconveniences, which contribute to make it inadequate
to our exigencies, and ineligible but as an auxiliary.
"5th. That the resource of domestic loans is inconsidera-
ble; because there are, properly speaking, few moneyed
men in this country, and the few there are, can employ
their money to more advantage otherwise; besides which,
the instability of our currency, and the want of funds, have
impaired the public credit. That from the best estimates
of the annual expense of the war, and the annual revenues
which these states are capable of producing, there is a large
balance to be made up by public credit.
"6th. That the patience of the army, from an almost un-
interrupted series of complicated distress, is now nearly
exhausted; their discontents are matured to an extremity
which has recently had the most disagreeable consequen-
ces, and demonstrates the absolute necessity of speedy re-
lief. You are too well acquainted with all their sufferings,
for want of clothing, for want of subsistence, for want of
pay.
"7th. That the people begin to be dissatisfied with the
present system for the support of the war; and there is
cause to apprehend that evils actually felt in the prosecu-
tion of it, may weaken those sentiments which began it,
founded, not on immediate sufferings, but on a speculative
apprehension of evils to arise in future from the depriva-
tion of our liberties. There is danger that a commercial
and free people, little accustomed to heavy burdens, press-
vol. i. 42
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? 330 T II E LIFE OF
ed by impositions of a new and odious kind, may not make
a proper allowance for the necessity of the conjuncture,
and may imagine they have only exchanged one tyranny
for another.
"8th. That from all the foregoing considerations results,
first, the absolute necessity of an immediate, ample, and
efficacious succour of money, considerable enough to be a
foundation for permanent arrangements of finance; to re-
store the public credit, and give new life and activity to
our future operations. Secondly, the vast importance of a
decided effort of the allied arms upon this country the en-
suing campaign, to give a fatal blow to the power of the
enemy, and secure the great objects of the war, -- the liber-
ty and independence of these states. Without the first, we
may make a feeble and expiring effort the next campaign,
which would, in all probability, be the period of our oppo-
sition. With it, we should be in a condition to continue
the war as long as the obstinacy of the enemy might re-
quire. The first is essential to the last: both combined,
would at once bring the contest to a glorious issue ; put
the objects of the alliance out of the reach of contingen-
cies; crown the obligations which America already feels
to the magnanimity and generosity of her allies, and per-
petuate the union by those ties of gratitude and affection,
as well as mutual advantage, which alone can render it so-
lid and indissoluble.
"9th. That next to a loan of money, a constant naval su-
periority on these coasts, is the object which most interests
us. This would instantly reduce the enemy to a difficult
defensive, and by depriving them of all prospect of extend-
ing their acquisitions, would take away the motives for
prosecuting the war. Indeed, it is not easy to conceive,
how they could subsist a large force in this country, if we
had the command of the seas to interrupt the regular trans-
mission of supplies from Europe. This superiority (with
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? HAMILTON. 331
an aid of money) would enable us to convert the operations
of the war into a vigorous offensive. I say nothing of the
advantages to our trade, nor how infinitely it would facili-
tate our supplies. In short, it seems to be a deciding point.
It appears, too, to be the interest of our allies, abstract-
ed from the immediate benefits to this country, to transfer
the whole naval war to America. The number of ports
friendly to them and hostile to the British; the materials
this country affords for repairing the disabled ships; the
large quantities of provisions towards the subsistence of
the fleet; are circumstances which would give a palpable
advantage to our allies in a naval contest in these seas.
"That notwithstanding the embarrassments under which
we labour, and the inquietudes prevailing among the peo-
ple, there is still a fund of inclination and resources in this
country, equal to great and continued exertions; provided
we have it in our power to stop the progress of disgust, by
changing the present system, by restoring public credit,
and by giving activity to our measures; of all which, a
powerful succour of money might be the basis. The peo-
ple are dissatisfied; but it is with the feeble and oppressive
mode of conducting the war, not with the war itself. They
are not unwilling to contribute to its support, but they are
unwilling to do it in a way that renders private property
precarious, -- a necessary consequence of the fluctuation of
the national currency, and of the inability of government
to perform its engagements coercively made. A large ma-
jority are still firmly attached to its independence; abhor a
re-union with Great Britain; and are affectionate to the
alliance with France: but this disposition cannot supply the
place of the means essential in war, nor can we rely on its
continuance amid the perplexities, oppressions, and misfor-
tunes that attend the want of them.
"That no nation will have it more in its power to repay
what it may borrow than this. Our debts are small; the
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? 332 THE LIFE OF
immense tracts of unlocated lands; the variety and fertili-
ty of soils; the advantages of every kind which we possess
for commerce, insure to this country a rapid progress in
population and prosperity, and a certainty, its independ-
ence being established, of reducing, in a short term of years,
the comparatively inconsiderable debts we may have occa-
sion to contract.
"If the foregoing observations will be of any use to you,
I shall be happy. I wish you a safe and pleasant voyage,
the full accomplishment of your mission, and a speedy re-
turn ; -- being, with sentiments of perfect friendship, regard,
and affection, dear sir,
"Your obedient servant,
"G. W. "*
Colonel Laurens sailed from the United States in the
Alliance frigate, on the sixteenth of February, accompanied
by Major Jackson, an officer of distinguished gallantry,
whose important services during the mission, called forth
his repeated and warmest acknowledgements.
Hamilton had now been in the family of the commander-
in-chief near four years, and the extent of his services has
been partly shown. This connexion, under circumstances
of such interest, terminated within a few days after the de-
parture of Laurens. It will be seen, that it was the desire
* It will be observed, by a comparison of this document with that inserted
i n the diplomatic correspondence, that there is a difference in the disposition of
the parts of these instructions, and that the copy given to Laurens was fuller.
The difference is not, however, important The above is copied from the first
draft, in Hamilton's autograph, with the exception of the four closing lines,
which are added in the handwriting of Washington. --Colonel Hamilton, also,
a short time after, drew up a general view of the classification of crimes, and
the apportionment of punishments, to be adopted in the army; condemning
the arbitrary punishments which a defective system had produced, and also
making a very important suggestion as to the terms and forms of discharges
to be granted to the soldiers, both as a reward of merit, and a prevention ol
desertion.
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? HAMILTON. 333
of both parties that the breach which had occurred should
be concealed; but their relations were too conspicuous to
admit of it, and when it became known, the circumstances
were variously related, and the facts distorted.
The erroneous statements which have been made on this
subject, render necessary the publication of parts of a let-
ter to General Schuyler, written by Hamilton, with the
minutest accuracy, within two days after the occurrence,
as a vindication of his conduct, in this, one of the most try-
ing moments of his early life.
Head Quarters, New-Windsor, February 18th, 1781.
MY DEAR SIR,
Since I had the pleasure of writing you last, an unex-
pected change has taken place in my situation. I am no
longer a member of the General's family. This informa-
tion will surprise you, and the manner of the change will
surprise you more. Two days ago, the General and I
passed each other on the stairs ; -- he told me he wanted
to speak to me, -- I answered that I would wait upon him
immediately. I went below, and delivered Mr. Tilghman
a letter to be sent to the commissary, containing an order
of a pressing and interesting nature.
Returning to the General, I was stopped on the way by
the Marquis de La Fayette, and we conversed together
about a minute on a matter of business. He can testify
how impatient I was to get back, and that I left him in a
manner which, but for our intimacy, would have been more
than abrupt. Instead of finding the General, as is usual, in
his room, I met him at the head of the stairs, where accost-
ing me in an angry tone, "Colonel Hamilton, (said he,)
you have kept me waiting at the head of the stairs these
ten minutes; -- I must tell you, sir, you treat me with dis-
respect. " I replied, without petulancy, but with decision,
"I am not conscious of it, sir, but since you have thought
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? 334 THE LIFE OF
it necessary to tell me so, we part. " "Very well, sir, (said
he,) if it be your choice," or something to this effect, and we
separated. I sincerely believe my absence, which gave so
much umbrage, did not last two minutes.
In less than an hour after, Tilghman came to me in the
General's name, assuring me of his great confidence in my
abilities, integrity, usefulness, &c, and of his desire, in a
candid conversation, to heal a difference which could not
have happened but in a moment of passion. I requested
Mr. Tilghman to tell him, -- 1st. That I had taken my reso-
lution in a manner not to be revoked. 2d. That as a con-
versation could serve no other purpose than to produce ex-
planations, mutually disagreeable, though I certainly would
not refuse an interview, if he desired it, yet I would be hap-
py, if he would permit me to decline it. 3d. That though
determined to leave the family, the same principles which
had kept me so long in it, would continue to direct my con-
duct towards him when out of it. 4th. That, however, I
did not wish to distress him, or the public business, by quit-
ting him before he could derive other assistance by the re-
turn of some of the gentlemen who were absent. 5th. And
that in the mean time, it depended on him, to let our beha-
viour to each other be the same as if nothing had happen-
ed. He consented to decline the conversation, and thanked
me for my offer of continuing my aid in the manner I had
mentioned. -<,
I have given you so particular a detail of our difference,
from the desire I have to justify myself in your opinion.
Perhaps you may think I was precipitate in rejecting. the
overture made by the General to an accommodation. I
assure you, my dear sir, it was not the effect of resentment;
it was the deliberate result of maxims I had long formed
for the government of my own conduct.
I always disliked the office of an aid-de-camp, as having
in it a kind of personal dependence. I refused to serve in
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? HAMILTON. S35
this capacity with two Major Generals, at an early period
of the war. Infected, however, with the enthusiasm of the
times, an idea of the General's character overcame my
scruples, and induced me to accept his invitation to enter
into his family * * *. It has been often with great difficul-
ty that I have prevailed upon myself not to renounce it;
but while, from motives of public utility, I was doing vio-
lence to my feelings; I was always determined, if there
should ever happen a breach between us, never to consent
to an accommodation. I was persuaded, that when once
that nice barrier, which marked the boundaries of what we
owed to each other, should be thrown down, it might be
propped again, but could never be restored.
The General is a very honest man; -- his competitors
have slender abilities, and less integrity. His popularity
has often been essential to the safety of America, and is
still of great importance to it. These considerations have
influenced my past conduct respecting him, and will influ-
ence my future; -- I think it is necessary he should be
supported.
His estimation in your mind, whatever maybe its amount,
I am persuaded has been formed on principles, which a
circumstance like this cannot materially affect; but if I
thought it could diminish your friendship for him, I should
almost forego the motives that urge me to justify myself to
you. I wish what I have said to make no other impres-
sion, than to satisfy you I have not been in the wrong. It
is also said in confidence, as a public knowledge of the
breach would, in many ways, have an ill effect. It will,
probably, be the policy of both sides to conceal it, and co-
ver the separation with some plausible pretext. I am im-
portuned by such of my friends as are privy to the affair, to
listen to a reconciliation; but my resolution is unalterable.
As I cannot think of quitting the army during the war, I
have a project of re-entering into the artillery, by taking
'
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? 336 THE LIFE OF
Lieutenant Colonel Forrest's place, who is desirous of re-
tiring on half-pay. I have not, however, made up my mind
upon this head, as I should be obliged to come in the
youngest lieutenant colonel instead of the eldest, which
I ought to have been by natural succession, had I remained
in the corps; and, at the same time, to resume studies re-
lative to the profession, which to avoid inferiority, must be
laborious. #
If a handsome command in the campaign in the light in-
fantry should offer itself, I shall balance between this and
the artillery. My situation in the latter would be more
solid and permanent; but as I hope the war will not last
long enough to make it progressive, this consideration has
the less force.
A command for the campaign, would leave
me the winter to prosecute studies relative to my future
career in life * * *. I have written to you on this subject
with all the freedom and confidence to which you have a
right, and with an assurance of the interest you take in all
that concerns me.
Very sincerely and affectionately,
I am, dear sir,
Your most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.
While giving this representation of an event attended
with circumstances of so much delicacy, it is gratifying to
remark, that an incident, which, in other individuals, might
have tended to lessen our respect, either for one or both of
the parties, serves only to add to our higher estimation of
each.
Washington, to whom all the world was offering incense,
betrayed into the indulgence of a momentary error of tem-
per, makes an advance to conciliation with the friend whose
feelings he had injured; while Hamilton, with a high sense
of character, and a strong self-reliance, relinquishes a situa-
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? HAMILTON. 337
tion, the object of ambition to many a gallant soldier, and
of which the marked confidence of Washington had in-
creased the importance, to re-enter the line of the army,
with a doubtful prospect of employment, and possibly the
object of hostility to the wounded pride of its chief, and
that chief the man whom his country adored.
But the result of his decision demonstrated its wisdom.
Losing none of the confidence and respect of Washington,
he continued, though unconnected with him by any imme-
diate military relation, to aid him with his counsel on vari-
ous occasions, until they are seen again, drawn together by
mutual regard to the public interests, to the closest and
most intimate connexion, which terminated only with their
lives.
From the moment Hamilton's separation from the family
of Washington was known, such was his standing in the
army, that the occurrence was generally regretted. Let-
ters were addressed to him, expressive of the warmest at-
tachment, which, though felt by many, was by none more
strongly shown, than by the officers of France, who evinced
the deepest interest in his welfare. His high place in the
confidence of the commander, gave him an influence in
rendering those kindnesses which the situation of foreigners
peculiarly required; and his readiness, on all occasions, to
promote their wishes, led them to regret his leaving head
quarters, as an event by which they had lost a friend, on
whose affection they could repose every reliance.
Considerations of mere gratitude or interest were not
alone in recommending him to their regard. In the situa-
tion of the country, few of its young soldiers had enjoyed
those advantages, which enabled them to enter into the
gayeties of French manners, and to give zest to a society,
of which the usages were so unlike those then prevailing in
America. His command of their language, a natural turn
for pleasantry, a happy facility in adapting himself to the
vol. i. 43
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? 338 THE LIFE OF
character of his associates, a freedom from those prejudi-
ces above which persons of the most distinguished merit
do not always rise, and his warmth of heart, and romantic
temper, rendered him a welcome inmate to their conviviali-
ties, and gave him the first place among the American offi-
cers in their affections.
La Fayette, his early, his constant, his illustrious friend,
as he had been privy to many of the most confidential inci-
dents of Washington's life, and was aware of the import-
ance of Hamilton's services, seemed most to have regretted
it, and with the same warmth which he had shown in en-
deavouring to promote Hamilton's wishes on former occa-
sions, now sought to produce a reconciliation; but, as he
says, "when, after having explained the delay privately, he
expressed to each of them his own feelings, he found each
disposed to believe the other was not sorry for the separa-
tion. It did not, however, go farther than leaving the fami-
ly; the advice of Hamilton has since, in several circum-
stances, been friendly asked by the commander-in-chief. "
The following letters addressed to him, a short time after
this event, are indicative of the feelings which were enter-
tained towards him.
LA FAYETTE TO HAMILTON.
Elk, April 10th, 1781.
Where is, for the present, my dear Hamilton? This
question is not a mere affair of curiosity. It is not even
wholly owing to the tender sentiments of my friendship.
But motives, both of a public and private nature, conspire
in making me wish that your wo be not accomplished.
Perhaps you are at head quarters, perhaps at Albany; at
all events, I'll tell you my history.
Had the French fleet come in, Arnold was ours. The
more certain it was, the greater my disappointment has
been; at last it has become necessary for them to return
to Rhode-Island. I think they have exerted themselves for
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? HAMILTON. 339
the common good, and this has been a comfort in our mis-
fortune. Having luckily arrived at Elk by water, which
at first I had no right to expect, I have received the Ge-
neral's letter. If you are at head quarters, you will have
seen my correspondence with the General; if not, I tell you
that I am ordered to the southern army, and the General
thinks that the army under his immediate command will
remain inactive. After a march of forty days, we will ar-
rive at a time when the heat of the season will put an end
to operations. This detachment is so circumstanced, as to
make it very inconvenient for officers and men to proceed.
Before we arrive, we shall perhaps be reduced to five or
six hundred men.
There will be no light infantry formed, -- no attack
against New-York, -- none of those things which had flat-
tered my mind.
If a corps is sent to the southward by land, it ought to
have been the Jersey line, because if we weaken ourselves,
New-York will be out of the question.
Monsieur Destouches will, I think, propose to the Gene-
ral to send to Philadelphia l'Eveille, and all the frigates;
these, with the frigates now at Philadelphia, would carry
fifteen hundred men to whatever part of the continent the
General would think proper. We could then go to Mor-
ristown, there to form a new corps of light infantry upon
the principles at first intended, and embarking in the first
days of May, we could be at Wilmington, Georgetown, or
any where else, sooner than we can now be by land.
I would have the battalions composed of six companies;
-- colonels employed, Webb, Sprout, Huntington, Olney,
Hull, Barber, Gimat, Laurens; -- Majors Willet, Fish,
Gibbes, Inspector Smith, , and another; -- Brigadier
General Huntington and Scamell, and a good corps of ar-
tillery under ******. My dear friend, you would be more
important at head quarters; but if you don't stay there,
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? 340 TBI LIFE OF
you know what you have promised to me. Adieu. Write
me often and long letters. It is probable I will be in the
southern wilderness until the end of the war, far from head
quarters, from the French army, from my correspondence
with France; but the whole good I could have operated, in
this last instance, must have taken place by this time. My
best respects and affectionate compliments wait on Mrs.
Hamilton.
Most friendly, yours,
La Fayette.
On the eighteenth, (April,) he writes him from the Sus-
quehanna:
"DEAR HAMILTON,
"You are so sensible a fellow, that you can certainly ex-
plain to me what is the matter that New-York is given up;
that our letters to France go for nothing; that while the
French are coming, I am going. This last matter gives
great uneasiness to the Minister of France. All this is not
comprehensible to me, who having been long from head
quarters, have lost the course of intelligence.
"Have you left the family, my dear sir? I suppose so;
but from love to the General, for whom you know my af-
fection, I ardently wish it was not the case; -- many, many
reasons conspire to this desire of mine. But if you do leave
it, and if I go to exile, come and partake it with me.
"Yours,
"1. f. "
The approaching period of service, and the hopes which
began to be indulged of an active campaign, inspired Ha-
milton with a strong desire to obtain a situation in which
he might seize the first opportunity to increase his reputa-
tion. The letters of his friends, and especially those receiv-
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? HAMILTON. 341
ed from the Marquis, quickened his wishes, and with a de-
termination to continue in the service until the independ-
ence of the country was secured, he now resolved to renew
his application for a separate command, which had failed
in the preceding autumn; and with this view addressed the
following letter to the commander-in-chief.
SIB,
I imagine your excellency has been informed, that in
consequence of the resolution of congress for granting com-
missions to aid-de-camps appointed under the former esta-
blishment, I have obtained one of lieutenant colonel in the
army of the United States, bearing rank since the first of
March, 1777.
It is become necessary to me to apply to your excellency,
to know in what manner you foresee you will be able to
employ me in the ensuing campaign. I am ready to enter
into activity whenever you think proper; though I am not
anxious to do it till the army takes the field, as before that
period I perceive no object.
Unconnected as I am with any regiment, I can have no
other command than in a light corps, and I flatter myself
my pretensions to this are good.
Your excellency knows I have been in actual service
since the beginning of '76. I began in the line, and had I
continued there, I ought, in justice, to have been more ad-
vanced in rank than I now am. I believe my conduct in
the different capacities in which I have acted, has appeared
to the officers of the army in general such as to merit their
confidence and esteem; and I cannot suppose them to be
so ungenerous as not to see me with pleasure put into a
situation still to exercise the disposition I have always had,
of being useful to the United States. I mention these things
only to show that I do not apprehend the same difficulties
can exist in my case, (which is peculiar,) that have opposed
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? 342 THE LIFE OF
the appointment to commands of some other officers, not
belonging to what is called the line.
Though the light infantry is chiefly formed, yet being
detached to the southward, I take it for granted there will
be a van guard by detachment formed for this army.
I have the honour to be, very respectfully,
Your excellency's most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.
De Peyster's Point, April 27, 1731.
The following reply was immediately given.
New-Windsor, April 27th, 1781.
DEAR SIR,
Your letter of this date has not a little embarrassed me.
You must remember the ferment in the Pennsylvania line
the last campaign, occasioned by the appointment of Major
McPherson, and you know the uneasiness which at this
moment exists among the eastern officers, on account of
the commands conferred upon Colonel Gimat and Major
Galvan, although it was the result of absolute necessity.
Should circumstances admit of the formation of another
advanced corps, of which I see very little prospect from
present appearances, it can be but small, and must be
composed almost entirely of eastern troops; and to add to
the discontents of the officers of those lines, by the farther
appointment of an officer of your rank to the command of
it, or in it, would, I am certain, involve me in a difficulty
of a very disagreeable and delicate nature, and might, per-
haps, lead to consequences more serious than it is easy to
imagine. While I adhere firmly to the right of making
such appointments as you request, I am, at the same time,
obliged to reflect, that it will not do to push that right too
far, more especially in a service like ours, and at a time so
critical as the present.
?
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? HAMILTON. 343
I am convinced, that no officer can, with justice, dispute
your merit or abilities. The opposition heretofore made
had not been for the want of those qualifications in the
gentlemen who are, and have been, the objects of discon-
tent. The officers of the line contend, without having re-
ference to particular persons, that it is a hardship and re-
flection upon them, to introduce brevet officers into com-
mands, (of some permanency,) in which there are more op-
portunities of distinguishing themselves, than in the line of
the army at large, and with the men they have had the
trouble to discipline and to prepare for the field. My prin-
cipal concern arises from an apprehension that you will im-
pute my refusal of your request to other motives than those
I have expressed, but I beg you to be assured, I am only
influenced by the reasons which I have mentioned.
I am, dear sir,
Your obedient and humble servant,
Geo. Washington.
Hamilton, deeming his case one which ought to be distin-
guished from those which Washington had adduced as pre-
cedents, wrote him a farther letter, on the second of May.
SIR,
I am extremely sorry to have embarrassed you by my
late application, and that you should think there are insu-
perable obstacles to a compliance with it. Having re-
nounced my expectations, I have no other inducement for
troubling your excellency with a second letter, than to ob-
viate the appearance of having desired a thing inconsistent
with the good of the service, while I was acquainted with
the circumstances that made it so.
I was too interested a spectator of what happened in the
case of Major McPherson, not to have remarked, and not
to recollect, all the circumstances. The opposition turned,
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? 344 THE LIFE OF
ostensibly, on his being a brevet officer, yet having a com-
mand in a corps formed entirely from one line; the pro-
priety of his being employed in a detachment from the ar-
my at large, so far as I remember, was not disputed. In
delicacy to Major McPherson, no personal objections were
formally made, but in reality they existed and contributed
to the discontent. It was thought a peculiar hardship, that
a gentleman who had, for a long time, fought against us,
and had not taken part with us till a late period, and when
our affairs had assumed a more prosperous aspect, should
be preferred in one of the most honorary commands of the
service. Your excellency must be convinced, that I men-
tion this in no other view than to show the sentiments of
the officers at the time, and the whole grounds of the oppo-
sition. My esteem for Major McPherson, and other rea-
sons, make it impossible I can have a different intention.
I know less of the motives of dissatisfaction in the cases
of Colonel Gimat and Major Galvan; but I have under-
stood, that it is founded on their being appointed in the light
corps for two successive campaigns.
It would be uncandid in me not to acknowledge, that I
believe a disposition to exclude brevet officers in general
from command, has a great share in the opposition, in every
instance, and that so far it affects my case. But, at the same
time, it appears to me, this principle alone can never be pro-
ductive of more than momentary murmurs, where it is not
seconded by some plausible pretext. I also am convinced,
that the Pennsylvania officers, for their own sakes, repented
the rash steps they had taken, and, on cool reflection, were
happy in an opportunity to relinquish their menaces of quit-
ting a service to which they were attached by habit, inclina-
tion, and interest, as well as by patriotism. I believe, too,
we shall never have a similar instance in the army, unless
the practice should be carried to excess. Major Galvan, I
am told, will probably be relieved. Colonel Gimat will be
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? HAMILTON. 345
then the only brevet officer remaining in command. Your
excellency is the best judge of the proper limits; and there
can be no doubt, that the rights of particular officers ought
to give place to the general good and tranquillity of the ser-
vice,
I cannot forbear repeating, that my case is peculiar, and
dissimilar to all the former; ^-- it is distinguished by the cir-
cumstances I have before intimated, -- my early entrance
into the service, -- my having made the campaign of '76,
the most disagreeable of the war, at the head of a company
of artillery, and having been entitled, in that corps, to a
rank, equal in degree, more ancient in date, than I now pos-
sess, -- my having made all the subsequent campaigns in
the family of the commander-in-chief, in a constant course
of important and laborious service. These are my preten-
sions, at this advanced period of the war, to being employed
in the only way which my situation admits; and I imagine
they would have their weight in the minds of the officers in
general. I only urge them a second time, as reasons which
will not suffer me to view the matter in the same light with
your excellency, or to regard as impracticable my appoint-
ment in a light corps, should there be one formed. I en-
treat they may be understood in this sense only. I am in-
capable of wishing to obtain any object by importunity.
I assure your excellency, that I am too well persuaded of
your candour, to attribute your refusal to any other cause
than an apprehension of inconveniences that may attend the
appointment.
I have the honour to be, with perfect respect, sir,
Your most obedient and humble servant,
A. Hamilton.
P. S. I have used the term brevet in the sense your excel-
lency appears to have understood it, as signifying, in gene-
ral, all officers not attached to any established corps. Con-
vol. i. 44
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? 346 TUE LIFE OF
gress, however, seem to have made a distinction; they give
only a kind of warrant to those whom they designate as
brevet officers; mine is a regular commission.
De Peyster's Point, May 2d, 1781.
Within a short time after this correspondence closed, a
letter was received from La Fayette, dated Richmond,
May 23, 1781.
MY SEAR HAMILTON,
I have been long complaining that I had nothing to do;
and want of employment was an objection I had to my
going to the southward. But for the present, my dear
friend, my complaint is quite of an opposite nature; and I
have so many arrangements to make, so many difficulties
to combat, so many enemies to deal with, that I am just
that much of a general as will make me an historian of mis-
fortunes, and nail my name upon the ruins of what good
soldiers are pleased to call the army in Virginia.
There is an age past since I heard from you.
rens to Hamilton of the eighteenth December, 1779, will be
recollected; in which the appointment of the latter, as se-
cretary to the minister at Versailles, is mentioned as having
been strongly urged by him. Within a short time after its
date, intelligence was received, that his father, Henry Lau-
rens, who had been appointed a commissioner to negotiate
a treaty with the United Provinces, had been captured on
his voyage, and was immured in the Tower.
This wanton act of severity had excited no less sensa-
tion in Europe than in America, and brought out, in a
bolder light, the character of this distinguished personage,
recently the President of the American Congress, now a
prisoner of state.
The appointment of an envoy had been deferred until the
latter part of the preceding year. The necessity of a loan,
which had been so strongly urged by Hamilton, had led him
to advise another visit to France by La Fayette, whose in-
fluence had been increased by a recent change in the minis-
try, and the idea was entertained, that Hamilton might be
associated with him, in this interesting mission. But the
prospect of active service in the south, had greater charms
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? HAMILTON. S27
for the Marquis, and it was determined, that a member of
Washington's family should be appointed in his stead.
The choice was between the two friends, Laurens and
Hamilton. The idea of the mission having originated with
Hamilton, induced Laurens to defer to him an appointment,
which the dull prospects of the army, his sense of the im-
portance of an energetic negotiation, and the high distinc-
tion, rendered an object of desire. On the other hand, the
news of the capture of his father, would naturally inspire
his son with a wish to seize this opportunity of obtaining his
release. Hamilton immediately relinquished his preten-
sions; but the warmth of Laurens' friendship triumphed
over his filial feelings, and he urged the consent of Hamil-
ton, with an avowal, that he would prefer confiding to him
the fate of his father. A scene of generous contention en-
sued, mutually honourable, and characteristic. Hamilton
prevailed; and on the eleventh of December, Laurens,
having signified his assent to congress, was unanimously
elected.
The importance of giving a correct view of the state of
affairs at this juncture, suggested to Hamilton the idea of a
special letter of instructions, in addition to that which had
been given to the envoy by congress, being addressed to him
by General Washington, which, in the opinion of La Fay-
ette, it was supposed would add additional weight to his
representations. This important duty was delegated to
Hamilton by Washington, and will be read with interest, as
containing a full exposition of the resources and situation of
the country at that critical juncture.
WASHINGTON TO LAURENS.
"In compliance with your request, I shall commit to
writing the result of our conferences on the present state of
American affairs; in which I have given you my opinion
with that freedom and explicitness, which the objects of
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? THE LIFE OP
your commission, my entire confidence in you, and the exi-
gency of our affairs demand.
"1st. To me it appears evident, that, considering the dif-
fused population of these states, the consequent difficulty of
drawing together their resources, the composition and tem-
per of a part of their inhabitants, the want of a sufficient
stock of national wealth, as a basis for revenue, and the al-
most total extinction of commerce, the efforts that we have
been compelled to make for carrying on the war, have ex-
ceeded the natural abilities of this country, and, by degrees,
brought us to a crisis that makes the most efficacious and
immediate succour from abroad indispensable to our safety.
"2d. That notwithstanding, from the confusion insepara-
ble from a revolution; from our having governments to
frame, and every species of civil and military institutions to
create; from that inexperience in affairs necessarily inci-
dent to a nation in its commencement, some errors may
have been committed in the administration of our finances,
to which a part of our embarrassments may be attributed;
yet they are principally to be ascribed to an essential de-
fect of means, the want of a sufficient stock of wealth, as
mentioned in the first article, which want, continuing to
operate, will make it impossible, by any interior exertions,
to extricate ourselves from those embarrassments, restore
the public credit, and furnish the requisite funds for carry-
ing on the war.
"3d. That experience has demonstrated it to be impossi-
ble long to support a paper credit without funds for its re-
demption; that the depreciation of our currency was in
the main a necessary effect of the want of those funds;
and that its restoration is impossible for the same reason,
to which the general diffidence which has taken place
among the people is an additional, and, in the present state
of things, an insuperable obstacle.
"4th. That the mode which for want of money has been
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? IIAMILTON. 329
substituted for supplying the army, by assessing a portion
of the productions of the earth, has hitherto been found to be
ineffectual; has frequently left the army to experience the
most calamitous distress, and from its novelty and incom-
patibility with ancient habits is regarded by the people as
burthensome and oppressive; has excited serious discon-
tents, and in some states there appear alarming symptoms
of opposition. That this mode has, besides, many particu-
lar inconveniences, which contribute to make it inadequate
to our exigencies, and ineligible but as an auxiliary.
"5th. That the resource of domestic loans is inconsidera-
ble; because there are, properly speaking, few moneyed
men in this country, and the few there are, can employ
their money to more advantage otherwise; besides which,
the instability of our currency, and the want of funds, have
impaired the public credit. That from the best estimates
of the annual expense of the war, and the annual revenues
which these states are capable of producing, there is a large
balance to be made up by public credit.
"6th. That the patience of the army, from an almost un-
interrupted series of complicated distress, is now nearly
exhausted; their discontents are matured to an extremity
which has recently had the most disagreeable consequen-
ces, and demonstrates the absolute necessity of speedy re-
lief. You are too well acquainted with all their sufferings,
for want of clothing, for want of subsistence, for want of
pay.
"7th. That the people begin to be dissatisfied with the
present system for the support of the war; and there is
cause to apprehend that evils actually felt in the prosecu-
tion of it, may weaken those sentiments which began it,
founded, not on immediate sufferings, but on a speculative
apprehension of evils to arise in future from the depriva-
tion of our liberties. There is danger that a commercial
and free people, little accustomed to heavy burdens, press-
vol. i. 42
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? 330 T II E LIFE OF
ed by impositions of a new and odious kind, may not make
a proper allowance for the necessity of the conjuncture,
and may imagine they have only exchanged one tyranny
for another.
"8th. That from all the foregoing considerations results,
first, the absolute necessity of an immediate, ample, and
efficacious succour of money, considerable enough to be a
foundation for permanent arrangements of finance; to re-
store the public credit, and give new life and activity to
our future operations. Secondly, the vast importance of a
decided effort of the allied arms upon this country the en-
suing campaign, to give a fatal blow to the power of the
enemy, and secure the great objects of the war, -- the liber-
ty and independence of these states. Without the first, we
may make a feeble and expiring effort the next campaign,
which would, in all probability, be the period of our oppo-
sition. With it, we should be in a condition to continue
the war as long as the obstinacy of the enemy might re-
quire. The first is essential to the last: both combined,
would at once bring the contest to a glorious issue ; put
the objects of the alliance out of the reach of contingen-
cies; crown the obligations which America already feels
to the magnanimity and generosity of her allies, and per-
petuate the union by those ties of gratitude and affection,
as well as mutual advantage, which alone can render it so-
lid and indissoluble.
"9th. That next to a loan of money, a constant naval su-
periority on these coasts, is the object which most interests
us. This would instantly reduce the enemy to a difficult
defensive, and by depriving them of all prospect of extend-
ing their acquisitions, would take away the motives for
prosecuting the war. Indeed, it is not easy to conceive,
how they could subsist a large force in this country, if we
had the command of the seas to interrupt the regular trans-
mission of supplies from Europe. This superiority (with
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? HAMILTON. 331
an aid of money) would enable us to convert the operations
of the war into a vigorous offensive. I say nothing of the
advantages to our trade, nor how infinitely it would facili-
tate our supplies. In short, it seems to be a deciding point.
It appears, too, to be the interest of our allies, abstract-
ed from the immediate benefits to this country, to transfer
the whole naval war to America. The number of ports
friendly to them and hostile to the British; the materials
this country affords for repairing the disabled ships; the
large quantities of provisions towards the subsistence of
the fleet; are circumstances which would give a palpable
advantage to our allies in a naval contest in these seas.
"That notwithstanding the embarrassments under which
we labour, and the inquietudes prevailing among the peo-
ple, there is still a fund of inclination and resources in this
country, equal to great and continued exertions; provided
we have it in our power to stop the progress of disgust, by
changing the present system, by restoring public credit,
and by giving activity to our measures; of all which, a
powerful succour of money might be the basis. The peo-
ple are dissatisfied; but it is with the feeble and oppressive
mode of conducting the war, not with the war itself. They
are not unwilling to contribute to its support, but they are
unwilling to do it in a way that renders private property
precarious, -- a necessary consequence of the fluctuation of
the national currency, and of the inability of government
to perform its engagements coercively made. A large ma-
jority are still firmly attached to its independence; abhor a
re-union with Great Britain; and are affectionate to the
alliance with France: but this disposition cannot supply the
place of the means essential in war, nor can we rely on its
continuance amid the perplexities, oppressions, and misfor-
tunes that attend the want of them.
"That no nation will have it more in its power to repay
what it may borrow than this. Our debts are small; the
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? 332 THE LIFE OF
immense tracts of unlocated lands; the variety and fertili-
ty of soils; the advantages of every kind which we possess
for commerce, insure to this country a rapid progress in
population and prosperity, and a certainty, its independ-
ence being established, of reducing, in a short term of years,
the comparatively inconsiderable debts we may have occa-
sion to contract.
"If the foregoing observations will be of any use to you,
I shall be happy. I wish you a safe and pleasant voyage,
the full accomplishment of your mission, and a speedy re-
turn ; -- being, with sentiments of perfect friendship, regard,
and affection, dear sir,
"Your obedient servant,
"G. W. "*
Colonel Laurens sailed from the United States in the
Alliance frigate, on the sixteenth of February, accompanied
by Major Jackson, an officer of distinguished gallantry,
whose important services during the mission, called forth
his repeated and warmest acknowledgements.
Hamilton had now been in the family of the commander-
in-chief near four years, and the extent of his services has
been partly shown. This connexion, under circumstances
of such interest, terminated within a few days after the de-
parture of Laurens. It will be seen, that it was the desire
* It will be observed, by a comparison of this document with that inserted
i n the diplomatic correspondence, that there is a difference in the disposition of
the parts of these instructions, and that the copy given to Laurens was fuller.
The difference is not, however, important The above is copied from the first
draft, in Hamilton's autograph, with the exception of the four closing lines,
which are added in the handwriting of Washington. --Colonel Hamilton, also,
a short time after, drew up a general view of the classification of crimes, and
the apportionment of punishments, to be adopted in the army; condemning
the arbitrary punishments which a defective system had produced, and also
making a very important suggestion as to the terms and forms of discharges
to be granted to the soldiers, both as a reward of merit, and a prevention ol
desertion.
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? HAMILTON. 333
of both parties that the breach which had occurred should
be concealed; but their relations were too conspicuous to
admit of it, and when it became known, the circumstances
were variously related, and the facts distorted.
The erroneous statements which have been made on this
subject, render necessary the publication of parts of a let-
ter to General Schuyler, written by Hamilton, with the
minutest accuracy, within two days after the occurrence,
as a vindication of his conduct, in this, one of the most try-
ing moments of his early life.
Head Quarters, New-Windsor, February 18th, 1781.
MY DEAR SIR,
Since I had the pleasure of writing you last, an unex-
pected change has taken place in my situation. I am no
longer a member of the General's family. This informa-
tion will surprise you, and the manner of the change will
surprise you more. Two days ago, the General and I
passed each other on the stairs ; -- he told me he wanted
to speak to me, -- I answered that I would wait upon him
immediately. I went below, and delivered Mr. Tilghman
a letter to be sent to the commissary, containing an order
of a pressing and interesting nature.
Returning to the General, I was stopped on the way by
the Marquis de La Fayette, and we conversed together
about a minute on a matter of business. He can testify
how impatient I was to get back, and that I left him in a
manner which, but for our intimacy, would have been more
than abrupt. Instead of finding the General, as is usual, in
his room, I met him at the head of the stairs, where accost-
ing me in an angry tone, "Colonel Hamilton, (said he,)
you have kept me waiting at the head of the stairs these
ten minutes; -- I must tell you, sir, you treat me with dis-
respect. " I replied, without petulancy, but with decision,
"I am not conscious of it, sir, but since you have thought
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? 334 THE LIFE OF
it necessary to tell me so, we part. " "Very well, sir, (said
he,) if it be your choice," or something to this effect, and we
separated. I sincerely believe my absence, which gave so
much umbrage, did not last two minutes.
In less than an hour after, Tilghman came to me in the
General's name, assuring me of his great confidence in my
abilities, integrity, usefulness, &c, and of his desire, in a
candid conversation, to heal a difference which could not
have happened but in a moment of passion. I requested
Mr. Tilghman to tell him, -- 1st. That I had taken my reso-
lution in a manner not to be revoked. 2d. That as a con-
versation could serve no other purpose than to produce ex-
planations, mutually disagreeable, though I certainly would
not refuse an interview, if he desired it, yet I would be hap-
py, if he would permit me to decline it. 3d. That though
determined to leave the family, the same principles which
had kept me so long in it, would continue to direct my con-
duct towards him when out of it. 4th. That, however, I
did not wish to distress him, or the public business, by quit-
ting him before he could derive other assistance by the re-
turn of some of the gentlemen who were absent. 5th. And
that in the mean time, it depended on him, to let our beha-
viour to each other be the same as if nothing had happen-
ed. He consented to decline the conversation, and thanked
me for my offer of continuing my aid in the manner I had
mentioned. -<,
I have given you so particular a detail of our difference,
from the desire I have to justify myself in your opinion.
Perhaps you may think I was precipitate in rejecting. the
overture made by the General to an accommodation. I
assure you, my dear sir, it was not the effect of resentment;
it was the deliberate result of maxims I had long formed
for the government of my own conduct.
I always disliked the office of an aid-de-camp, as having
in it a kind of personal dependence. I refused to serve in
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? HAMILTON. S35
this capacity with two Major Generals, at an early period
of the war. Infected, however, with the enthusiasm of the
times, an idea of the General's character overcame my
scruples, and induced me to accept his invitation to enter
into his family * * *. It has been often with great difficul-
ty that I have prevailed upon myself not to renounce it;
but while, from motives of public utility, I was doing vio-
lence to my feelings; I was always determined, if there
should ever happen a breach between us, never to consent
to an accommodation. I was persuaded, that when once
that nice barrier, which marked the boundaries of what we
owed to each other, should be thrown down, it might be
propped again, but could never be restored.
The General is a very honest man; -- his competitors
have slender abilities, and less integrity. His popularity
has often been essential to the safety of America, and is
still of great importance to it. These considerations have
influenced my past conduct respecting him, and will influ-
ence my future; -- I think it is necessary he should be
supported.
His estimation in your mind, whatever maybe its amount,
I am persuaded has been formed on principles, which a
circumstance like this cannot materially affect; but if I
thought it could diminish your friendship for him, I should
almost forego the motives that urge me to justify myself to
you. I wish what I have said to make no other impres-
sion, than to satisfy you I have not been in the wrong. It
is also said in confidence, as a public knowledge of the
breach would, in many ways, have an ill effect. It will,
probably, be the policy of both sides to conceal it, and co-
ver the separation with some plausible pretext. I am im-
portuned by such of my friends as are privy to the affair, to
listen to a reconciliation; but my resolution is unalterable.
As I cannot think of quitting the army during the war, I
have a project of re-entering into the artillery, by taking
'
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? 336 THE LIFE OF
Lieutenant Colonel Forrest's place, who is desirous of re-
tiring on half-pay. I have not, however, made up my mind
upon this head, as I should be obliged to come in the
youngest lieutenant colonel instead of the eldest, which
I ought to have been by natural succession, had I remained
in the corps; and, at the same time, to resume studies re-
lative to the profession, which to avoid inferiority, must be
laborious. #
If a handsome command in the campaign in the light in-
fantry should offer itself, I shall balance between this and
the artillery. My situation in the latter would be more
solid and permanent; but as I hope the war will not last
long enough to make it progressive, this consideration has
the less force.
A command for the campaign, would leave
me the winter to prosecute studies relative to my future
career in life * * *. I have written to you on this subject
with all the freedom and confidence to which you have a
right, and with an assurance of the interest you take in all
that concerns me.
Very sincerely and affectionately,
I am, dear sir,
Your most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.
While giving this representation of an event attended
with circumstances of so much delicacy, it is gratifying to
remark, that an incident, which, in other individuals, might
have tended to lessen our respect, either for one or both of
the parties, serves only to add to our higher estimation of
each.
Washington, to whom all the world was offering incense,
betrayed into the indulgence of a momentary error of tem-
per, makes an advance to conciliation with the friend whose
feelings he had injured; while Hamilton, with a high sense
of character, and a strong self-reliance, relinquishes a situa-
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? HAMILTON. 337
tion, the object of ambition to many a gallant soldier, and
of which the marked confidence of Washington had in-
creased the importance, to re-enter the line of the army,
with a doubtful prospect of employment, and possibly the
object of hostility to the wounded pride of its chief, and
that chief the man whom his country adored.
But the result of his decision demonstrated its wisdom.
Losing none of the confidence and respect of Washington,
he continued, though unconnected with him by any imme-
diate military relation, to aid him with his counsel on vari-
ous occasions, until they are seen again, drawn together by
mutual regard to the public interests, to the closest and
most intimate connexion, which terminated only with their
lives.
From the moment Hamilton's separation from the family
of Washington was known, such was his standing in the
army, that the occurrence was generally regretted. Let-
ters were addressed to him, expressive of the warmest at-
tachment, which, though felt by many, was by none more
strongly shown, than by the officers of France, who evinced
the deepest interest in his welfare. His high place in the
confidence of the commander, gave him an influence in
rendering those kindnesses which the situation of foreigners
peculiarly required; and his readiness, on all occasions, to
promote their wishes, led them to regret his leaving head
quarters, as an event by which they had lost a friend, on
whose affection they could repose every reliance.
Considerations of mere gratitude or interest were not
alone in recommending him to their regard. In the situa-
tion of the country, few of its young soldiers had enjoyed
those advantages, which enabled them to enter into the
gayeties of French manners, and to give zest to a society,
of which the usages were so unlike those then prevailing in
America. His command of their language, a natural turn
for pleasantry, a happy facility in adapting himself to the
vol. i. 43
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? 338 THE LIFE OF
character of his associates, a freedom from those prejudi-
ces above which persons of the most distinguished merit
do not always rise, and his warmth of heart, and romantic
temper, rendered him a welcome inmate to their conviviali-
ties, and gave him the first place among the American offi-
cers in their affections.
La Fayette, his early, his constant, his illustrious friend,
as he had been privy to many of the most confidential inci-
dents of Washington's life, and was aware of the import-
ance of Hamilton's services, seemed most to have regretted
it, and with the same warmth which he had shown in en-
deavouring to promote Hamilton's wishes on former occa-
sions, now sought to produce a reconciliation; but, as he
says, "when, after having explained the delay privately, he
expressed to each of them his own feelings, he found each
disposed to believe the other was not sorry for the separa-
tion. It did not, however, go farther than leaving the fami-
ly; the advice of Hamilton has since, in several circum-
stances, been friendly asked by the commander-in-chief. "
The following letters addressed to him, a short time after
this event, are indicative of the feelings which were enter-
tained towards him.
LA FAYETTE TO HAMILTON.
Elk, April 10th, 1781.
Where is, for the present, my dear Hamilton? This
question is not a mere affair of curiosity. It is not even
wholly owing to the tender sentiments of my friendship.
But motives, both of a public and private nature, conspire
in making me wish that your wo be not accomplished.
Perhaps you are at head quarters, perhaps at Albany; at
all events, I'll tell you my history.
Had the French fleet come in, Arnold was ours. The
more certain it was, the greater my disappointment has
been; at last it has become necessary for them to return
to Rhode-Island. I think they have exerted themselves for
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? HAMILTON. 339
the common good, and this has been a comfort in our mis-
fortune. Having luckily arrived at Elk by water, which
at first I had no right to expect, I have received the Ge-
neral's letter. If you are at head quarters, you will have
seen my correspondence with the General; if not, I tell you
that I am ordered to the southern army, and the General
thinks that the army under his immediate command will
remain inactive. After a march of forty days, we will ar-
rive at a time when the heat of the season will put an end
to operations. This detachment is so circumstanced, as to
make it very inconvenient for officers and men to proceed.
Before we arrive, we shall perhaps be reduced to five or
six hundred men.
There will be no light infantry formed, -- no attack
against New-York, -- none of those things which had flat-
tered my mind.
If a corps is sent to the southward by land, it ought to
have been the Jersey line, because if we weaken ourselves,
New-York will be out of the question.
Monsieur Destouches will, I think, propose to the Gene-
ral to send to Philadelphia l'Eveille, and all the frigates;
these, with the frigates now at Philadelphia, would carry
fifteen hundred men to whatever part of the continent the
General would think proper. We could then go to Mor-
ristown, there to form a new corps of light infantry upon
the principles at first intended, and embarking in the first
days of May, we could be at Wilmington, Georgetown, or
any where else, sooner than we can now be by land.
I would have the battalions composed of six companies;
-- colonels employed, Webb, Sprout, Huntington, Olney,
Hull, Barber, Gimat, Laurens; -- Majors Willet, Fish,
Gibbes, Inspector Smith, , and another; -- Brigadier
General Huntington and Scamell, and a good corps of ar-
tillery under ******. My dear friend, you would be more
important at head quarters; but if you don't stay there,
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? 340 TBI LIFE OF
you know what you have promised to me. Adieu. Write
me often and long letters. It is probable I will be in the
southern wilderness until the end of the war, far from head
quarters, from the French army, from my correspondence
with France; but the whole good I could have operated, in
this last instance, must have taken place by this time. My
best respects and affectionate compliments wait on Mrs.
Hamilton.
Most friendly, yours,
La Fayette.
On the eighteenth, (April,) he writes him from the Sus-
quehanna:
"DEAR HAMILTON,
"You are so sensible a fellow, that you can certainly ex-
plain to me what is the matter that New-York is given up;
that our letters to France go for nothing; that while the
French are coming, I am going. This last matter gives
great uneasiness to the Minister of France. All this is not
comprehensible to me, who having been long from head
quarters, have lost the course of intelligence.
"Have you left the family, my dear sir? I suppose so;
but from love to the General, for whom you know my af-
fection, I ardently wish it was not the case; -- many, many
reasons conspire to this desire of mine. But if you do leave
it, and if I go to exile, come and partake it with me.
"Yours,
"1. f. "
The approaching period of service, and the hopes which
began to be indulged of an active campaign, inspired Ha-
milton with a strong desire to obtain a situation in which
he might seize the first opportunity to increase his reputa-
tion. The letters of his friends, and especially those receiv-
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? HAMILTON. 341
ed from the Marquis, quickened his wishes, and with a de-
termination to continue in the service until the independ-
ence of the country was secured, he now resolved to renew
his application for a separate command, which had failed
in the preceding autumn; and with this view addressed the
following letter to the commander-in-chief.
SIB,
I imagine your excellency has been informed, that in
consequence of the resolution of congress for granting com-
missions to aid-de-camps appointed under the former esta-
blishment, I have obtained one of lieutenant colonel in the
army of the United States, bearing rank since the first of
March, 1777.
It is become necessary to me to apply to your excellency,
to know in what manner you foresee you will be able to
employ me in the ensuing campaign. I am ready to enter
into activity whenever you think proper; though I am not
anxious to do it till the army takes the field, as before that
period I perceive no object.
Unconnected as I am with any regiment, I can have no
other command than in a light corps, and I flatter myself
my pretensions to this are good.
Your excellency knows I have been in actual service
since the beginning of '76. I began in the line, and had I
continued there, I ought, in justice, to have been more ad-
vanced in rank than I now am. I believe my conduct in
the different capacities in which I have acted, has appeared
to the officers of the army in general such as to merit their
confidence and esteem; and I cannot suppose them to be
so ungenerous as not to see me with pleasure put into a
situation still to exercise the disposition I have always had,
of being useful to the United States. I mention these things
only to show that I do not apprehend the same difficulties
can exist in my case, (which is peculiar,) that have opposed
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? 342 THE LIFE OF
the appointment to commands of some other officers, not
belonging to what is called the line.
Though the light infantry is chiefly formed, yet being
detached to the southward, I take it for granted there will
be a van guard by detachment formed for this army.
I have the honour to be, very respectfully,
Your excellency's most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.
De Peyster's Point, April 27, 1731.
The following reply was immediately given.
New-Windsor, April 27th, 1781.
DEAR SIR,
Your letter of this date has not a little embarrassed me.
You must remember the ferment in the Pennsylvania line
the last campaign, occasioned by the appointment of Major
McPherson, and you know the uneasiness which at this
moment exists among the eastern officers, on account of
the commands conferred upon Colonel Gimat and Major
Galvan, although it was the result of absolute necessity.
Should circumstances admit of the formation of another
advanced corps, of which I see very little prospect from
present appearances, it can be but small, and must be
composed almost entirely of eastern troops; and to add to
the discontents of the officers of those lines, by the farther
appointment of an officer of your rank to the command of
it, or in it, would, I am certain, involve me in a difficulty
of a very disagreeable and delicate nature, and might, per-
haps, lead to consequences more serious than it is easy to
imagine. While I adhere firmly to the right of making
such appointments as you request, I am, at the same time,
obliged to reflect, that it will not do to push that right too
far, more especially in a service like ours, and at a time so
critical as the present.
?
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? HAMILTON. 343
I am convinced, that no officer can, with justice, dispute
your merit or abilities. The opposition heretofore made
had not been for the want of those qualifications in the
gentlemen who are, and have been, the objects of discon-
tent. The officers of the line contend, without having re-
ference to particular persons, that it is a hardship and re-
flection upon them, to introduce brevet officers into com-
mands, (of some permanency,) in which there are more op-
portunities of distinguishing themselves, than in the line of
the army at large, and with the men they have had the
trouble to discipline and to prepare for the field. My prin-
cipal concern arises from an apprehension that you will im-
pute my refusal of your request to other motives than those
I have expressed, but I beg you to be assured, I am only
influenced by the reasons which I have mentioned.
I am, dear sir,
Your obedient and humble servant,
Geo. Washington.
Hamilton, deeming his case one which ought to be distin-
guished from those which Washington had adduced as pre-
cedents, wrote him a farther letter, on the second of May.
SIR,
I am extremely sorry to have embarrassed you by my
late application, and that you should think there are insu-
perable obstacles to a compliance with it. Having re-
nounced my expectations, I have no other inducement for
troubling your excellency with a second letter, than to ob-
viate the appearance of having desired a thing inconsistent
with the good of the service, while I was acquainted with
the circumstances that made it so.
I was too interested a spectator of what happened in the
case of Major McPherson, not to have remarked, and not
to recollect, all the circumstances. The opposition turned,
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? 344 THE LIFE OF
ostensibly, on his being a brevet officer, yet having a com-
mand in a corps formed entirely from one line; the pro-
priety of his being employed in a detachment from the ar-
my at large, so far as I remember, was not disputed. In
delicacy to Major McPherson, no personal objections were
formally made, but in reality they existed and contributed
to the discontent. It was thought a peculiar hardship, that
a gentleman who had, for a long time, fought against us,
and had not taken part with us till a late period, and when
our affairs had assumed a more prosperous aspect, should
be preferred in one of the most honorary commands of the
service. Your excellency must be convinced, that I men-
tion this in no other view than to show the sentiments of
the officers at the time, and the whole grounds of the oppo-
sition. My esteem for Major McPherson, and other rea-
sons, make it impossible I can have a different intention.
I know less of the motives of dissatisfaction in the cases
of Colonel Gimat and Major Galvan; but I have under-
stood, that it is founded on their being appointed in the light
corps for two successive campaigns.
It would be uncandid in me not to acknowledge, that I
believe a disposition to exclude brevet officers in general
from command, has a great share in the opposition, in every
instance, and that so far it affects my case. But, at the same
time, it appears to me, this principle alone can never be pro-
ductive of more than momentary murmurs, where it is not
seconded by some plausible pretext. I also am convinced,
that the Pennsylvania officers, for their own sakes, repented
the rash steps they had taken, and, on cool reflection, were
happy in an opportunity to relinquish their menaces of quit-
ting a service to which they were attached by habit, inclina-
tion, and interest, as well as by patriotism. I believe, too,
we shall never have a similar instance in the army, unless
the practice should be carried to excess. Major Galvan, I
am told, will probably be relieved. Colonel Gimat will be
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? HAMILTON. 345
then the only brevet officer remaining in command. Your
excellency is the best judge of the proper limits; and there
can be no doubt, that the rights of particular officers ought
to give place to the general good and tranquillity of the ser-
vice,
I cannot forbear repeating, that my case is peculiar, and
dissimilar to all the former; ^-- it is distinguished by the cir-
cumstances I have before intimated, -- my early entrance
into the service, -- my having made the campaign of '76,
the most disagreeable of the war, at the head of a company
of artillery, and having been entitled, in that corps, to a
rank, equal in degree, more ancient in date, than I now pos-
sess, -- my having made all the subsequent campaigns in
the family of the commander-in-chief, in a constant course
of important and laborious service. These are my preten-
sions, at this advanced period of the war, to being employed
in the only way which my situation admits; and I imagine
they would have their weight in the minds of the officers in
general. I only urge them a second time, as reasons which
will not suffer me to view the matter in the same light with
your excellency, or to regard as impracticable my appoint-
ment in a light corps, should there be one formed. I en-
treat they may be understood in this sense only. I am in-
capable of wishing to obtain any object by importunity.
I assure your excellency, that I am too well persuaded of
your candour, to attribute your refusal to any other cause
than an apprehension of inconveniences that may attend the
appointment.
I have the honour to be, with perfect respect, sir,
Your most obedient and humble servant,
A. Hamilton.
P. S. I have used the term brevet in the sense your excel-
lency appears to have understood it, as signifying, in gene-
ral, all officers not attached to any established corps. Con-
vol. i. 44
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? 346 TUE LIFE OF
gress, however, seem to have made a distinction; they give
only a kind of warrant to those whom they designate as
brevet officers; mine is a regular commission.
De Peyster's Point, May 2d, 1781.
Within a short time after this correspondence closed, a
letter was received from La Fayette, dated Richmond,
May 23, 1781.
MY SEAR HAMILTON,
I have been long complaining that I had nothing to do;
and want of employment was an objection I had to my
going to the southward. But for the present, my dear
friend, my complaint is quite of an opposite nature; and I
have so many arrangements to make, so many difficulties
to combat, so many enemies to deal with, that I am just
that much of a general as will make me an historian of mis-
fortunes, and nail my name upon the ruins of what good
soldiers are pleased to call the army in Virginia.
There is an age past since I heard from you.
